According to the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, around 90% of all eye injuries can be prevented. It also reported that 3 out of 5 workers were not wearing any eye protection. Many DIY activities such as hammering, chiselling
and grinding can result in eye injuries. Eye protection must be well fitting and suitable for the type of DIY activities being carried out.
That's why safety glasses are an absolute must-have for any DIY enthusiast. But beyond their primary function of protection, safety glasses hold some surprising capabilities that can actually enhance your projects. That's not thought about that often, and I shall explain what I mean in more detail.
Unconventional Uses for Safety Glasses
There are a few different uses aside from their main use of eye protection. I have shown these just below.
As a Magnifying Glass
- Using the Curve for a Closer Look - Believe it or not, the slightly curved lens of safety glasses can act as a very basic magnifying glass. It's not a huge magnification, but it might just be enough.
- Holding Technique - To master this technique, hold the safety glasses close to one eye, with the lens a few inches from the object you want to magnify.
- Position the Object - To get the best results, position the object you want to examine between the safety glasses and your other eye.
- Limitations - The magnification power of safety glasses is mild. They work best for examining small details like splinters, fine wires, or intricate craftwork.
For a Couple of Activities
- Dust Defense - Safety glasses with clear lenses can act as a handy barrier against dust and debris during cleaning, sanding, grinding, drilling or working in dusty environments.
- Light Wind Protection - In a pinch, safety glasses can offer some protection from light wind and dust particles during outdoor activities like cycling. However, for high-speed activities or serious wind protection, always invest in proper sports goggles with a secure fit and impact resistance.
Light Filtering
Infield Terminator 9380 420 Blue Light and UV Protective Glasses
- Taming the Harsh Light - Some safety glasses come with tinted lenses, such as the Dewalt Reinforcer Smoke Polycarbon safety glasses, can help diffuse harsh light sources. For instance, amber-tinted safety glasses can be helpful when soldering or working with bright heat sources.
- Blue Light Filtering - Some safety glasses such as the Infield Terminator 9380, claim to filter blue light emitted from computer screens. While this might offer some comfort, consult an eye doctor before using them for extended periods as their effectiveness for blue light filtering can vary.
Essential Precautions
It's worth pointing out that safety glasses are not a replacement for specialised protective gear. For high-impact activities or tasks with a risk of flying debris, use proper safety goggles. Regularly inspect your safety glasses for scratches or damage. Scratches can distort vision and compromise their protective abilities.
While I've explored some creative uses for safety glasses, it's crucial to remember their primary function: eye protection. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Protection - Safety glasses are designed to shield your eyes from flying debris, dust particles, and splashes. This makes them essential for any workshop or home activity that carries these risks.
- Impact Limitations: They are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For tasks with high-impact potential, like hammering or welding, invest in proper safety goggles with impact-resistant lenses.
- Regular Inspections - Regularly inspect your safety glasses for scratches or damage. Scratches can distort vision and compromise their protective abilities. Replace them if damaged to ensure your complete safety.
By following these precautions, you can ensure your safety glasses continue to serve their primary purpose while offering some unexpected benefits during your DIY projects.
My Final Thoughts
There is a wide selection of high-quality safety glasses featuring a variety of lens types and features to suit your needs. From crystal-clear magnification to light-diffusing tints, find the perfect pair that meets your own needs. I find that Amazon UK has an extensive collection at competitive prices.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The bottom line is that safety glasses have a main function, that of protecting your eyes. Making sure they fit correctly and are kept in good condition is important. If you have any ideas for other things they can be used for, I would love to hear them. Please feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below.
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